Wildlife

Redwing by Chris Gomersall 2020 Vision

Birds of a Feather Flock Together

By Sally Welbourn, Dorset Wildlife Trust Communications Officer

On the afternoon of a cold and dry winter’s day, the sky may darken and suddenly a deafening harmony of chitter chatter will fill the air. One of wildlife’s most spectacular winter sights is approaching – a swooping and swirling flock of birds.

Winter is the best time of year to put on a hat, scarf and gloves and head out to see a huge variety of migrating and flocking birds. Our winter visitors will include birds from Eastern Europe and even species from the far northern regions, such as redwings and fieldfares from Scandinavia. Whilst starlings are a common sight in the UK, not all are residents, so the sight of a ‘murmuration’ (flock) of starlings during the winter is still a very special sight.

Why does this happen? Well, why not!

Birds can move easily and quickly, so they make the most of an annual trip to the UK, with an abundance of food and a warmer climate to enjoy.

Flocks of birds display complex social skills, which will help ensure their survival at this time of year. The main advantage of a large flock of birds is safety in numbers – they can distract predators with the sheer size of the group, mesmerising potential threats and distracting them from preying on individuals in the flock. Large groups of birds also stay warm and hunt together, increasing their chances of success and survival.

Dorset Wildlife Trust reserves are an excellent place to witness these special wildlife sights this winter. Holes Bay in Poole is a particularly great place to see flocks of birds, and you could time this with a nice walk (if you’re local during lockdown! However, you are just as likely to see some great wildlife activity in your own garden so be sure to look ‘up’ this winter!

Leaving food and water out in your garden for birds this time of year can make up an essential part of their diet, and it’s also advised to avoid cutting hedges or Ivy until the end of winter as the berries provide birds with food and the greenery provides shelter.

One of the best winter wildlife spectacles on offer, most people searching for flocks of migrating birds won’t be disappointed this time of year.

Find out more about DWT reserves at: www. dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/ reserves Do share your photos and videos with us at: www.facebook.com/ dorsetwildlife or www.twitter.com/ dorsetwildlife